You've got a startup idea. Now comes the big question: How do you actually build it, and how much should you spend?
With AI-powered development tools, vibe coding, no-code platforms, freelancers, and development agencies, founders have more ways than ever to build their first product. But just because you can build something yourself doesn't always mean you should.
Should you vibe code your MVP? Find a technical cofounder? Hire a developer? Or invest in an agency to build it for you? And how do you know when you're spending too much (or too little)?
Join Startup Boston and City of Boston for a virtual panel breaking down the practical decisions founders face when building their first minimum viable product (MVP), from choosing the right development approach to understanding costs, timelines, and technical tradeoffs.
We’ll cover:
Vibe coding vs. traditional development: The capabilities and limitations of AI-powered development toolsDIY vs. hiring: Choosing between building it yourself, finding a technical cofounder, hiring freelancers, or working with an agencyBudgeting for your MVP: Understanding development costs and where to invest your moneyBuilding the right first version: Prioritizing essential features and avoiding unnecessary developmentAvoiding expensive mistakes: Recognizing technical shortcuts that could cost more in the long runKnowing when to invest more: Deciding when to bring in additional technical expertise and resources
Whether you're a nontechnical founder figuring out how to bring your idea to life or an early-stage entrepreneur deciding how to allocate your development budget, this conversation will help you make smarter decisions about building your first product.
Because building your MVP shouldn't require spending your entire startup budget before you've even launched.
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